Fish may curb depression

Despite being surrounded by the sea we Irish have never been big fish-eaters.

But now a new study says eating a lot of fish may help curb the risk of depression.

The association between a fishy diet and mental health appears to be equally significant among men and women. This is an observational study so no definitive conclusions can be drawn about cause and effect. But there may be a plausible biological explanation for the link, suggest the researchers.

For example, omega 3 fatty acids found in fish may alter the microstructure of brain membranes and modify the activity of the neurotransmitters, dopamine and serotonin, both of which are thought to be involved in depression, said the British Medical Journal.